WestJet to get three more Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets

The WestJet Group confirmed it would acquire three additional used Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, from SMBC Aviation Capital,  in addition to the six second-hand Boeing 737 MAX 8 earlier this summer.

"With our longstanding partner SMBC, we are thrilled to be adding three more Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to our growing fleet as we execute upon our mission of providing affordable air travel options to our guests," said Mike Scott, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer.

The acquisition of nine leased Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in the last six months allows the airline to bolster its plan for fleet growth, while managing delays for direct-from-factory aircraft. Leveraging these additional aircraft and subsequent capacity expansion, the WestJet Group will continue enhancing critical air access for its guests across its growing network.

Boeing offers CH-47 Chinook for Poland’s heavy transport helicopter needs

                             Boeing is offering the CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter to Poland. The announcement was made at the annual MSPO International Defence Industry Exhibition where Boeing is highlighting advanced defence systems, capabilities and services.

“The Chinook has been a key part of the European defence and humanitarian relief missions for more than five decades and would enhance Poland’s cooperation with allied forces, and support the country’s defence needs,” said Tim Flood, senior director, International Business Development for Europe and Americas. “In addition, the Chinook would deliver additional benefits to Poland through job creation, economic growth and greater autonomy for the Polish defence industry.”

The CH-47F Block II is the newest iteration of the Chinook, providing increased lift and range. Chinook Block II is a modernized and ready now solution that provides increased operational flexibility, improved performance, and enhanced survivability. It builds upon the proven capabilities of the CH-47 Chinook, offering an upgraded platform that meets the capability that militaries need today and serves as a strong foundation for affordable future upgrades.  

ACG leases a Boeing 737- MAX 9 to United Airlines

Aviation Capital Group LLC, a premier global full-service aircraft asset manager, announced the delivery of one Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft to United Airlines. Featuring CFM International LEAP-1B engines, this is the first aircraft scheduled to deliver to the airline as part of a multiple-aircraft sale-leaseback transaction between ACG and United Airlines.

“It is with great enthusiasm that we commemorate the delivery of United Airlines' latest Boeing 737 MAX 9 with Aviation Capital Group. This milestone marks a significant achievement in our successful partnership with United Airlines. Our collaboration continues to strengthen, driven by shared values and a mutual commitment to customer satisfaction. The Boeing 737-9 MAX is a testament to our dedication to advancing a greener, more sustainable future in aviation,” said Carter White, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of ACG. “We eagerly anticipate the future as we continue our journey with United Airlines, setting new industry benchmarks for service excellence and environmental stewardship. With our shared values and commitment to innovation, we are confident that we will achieve even greater milestones in the years to come.”

“We are excited to take delivery of this 737-9 MAX, an important addition to our fleet. Our partnership with the team at Aviation Capital Group has been instrumental in supporting our fleet strategy, particularly as we invest in more fuel-efficient, customer-friendly aircraft,” said Pamela Hendry, Vice President and Treasurer of United Airlines.

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Boeing and Nigeria to collaborate in advancing the nations aviation ecosystem

                  Boeing and the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development of Nigeria signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen the West African country’s aviation sector. Africa continues to be a promising market with its overall air-traffic growth forecasted well above the average global growth rate over the next 20 years.

“We are delighted to enter into this important, ‘working together’ agreement with Boeing which will benefit Nigerian airlines and enable the development of our country’s civil aviation ecosystem,” said Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Festus Keyamo. “As Africa’s largest economy and with the continent’s largest population, Nigeria has a lot to offer in driving the growth of aviation in Africa. The support to be provided through this agreement will help our local operators grow and succeed, which is a priority of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration. We are keen to work assiduously with Boeing in the coming months and years to make this a reality.”

As part of a strategic relationship with the ministry and Nigerian airlines, Boeing will provide planning workshops, training, technical support and assessments to airline operators.

Aviation Capital Group delivers a Boeing 737-9 MAX to United Airlines

Aviation Capital Group, a premier global full-service aircraft asset manager, announced the delivery of one Boeing 737- MAX 9 aircraft to United Airlines. Featuring CFM International LEAP-1B engines, this is the first aircraft scheduled to deliver to the airline as part of a multiple-aircraft sale-leaseback transaction between ACG and United Airlines.

“It is with great enthusiasm that we commemorate the delivery of United Airlines’ latest Boeing 737-9 MAX with Aviation Capital Group. This milestone marks a significant achievement in our successful partnership with United Airlines. Our collaboration continues to strengthen, driven by shared values and a mutual commitment to customer satisfaction. The Boeing 737-9 MAX is a testament to our dedication to advancing a greener, more sustainable future in aviation,” said Carter White, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of ACG. “We eagerly anticipate the future as we continue our journey with United Airlines, setting new industry benchmarks for service excellence and environmental stewardship. With our shared values and commitment to innovation, we are confident that we will achieve even greater milestones in the years to come.”

“We are excited to take delivery of this 737-9 MAX, an important addition to our fleet.  Our partnership with the team at Aviation Capital Group has been instrumental in supporting our fleet strategy, particularly as we invest in more fuel efficient, customer-friendly aircraft,” said Pamela Hendry, Vice President and Treasurer of United Airlines.

ACG specializes in commercial aircraft leasing and aviation finance. In addition to aircraft leasing services, we provide aircraft asset management solutions tailored to meet our customers’ fleet management needs.

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Japan Airlines "JAL Fantastic Journey Express" to begin domestic flights in late october

Japan Airlines has confirmed that its President and Group CEO Mitsuko Tottori and Oriental Land Co. President and COO Kenji Yoshida will launch the “JAL Fantastic Journey Express” special liveried Boeing 767-300ER, which will begin domestic flights in Japan for a limited period starting in late October. 

The aircraft’s design is inspired by the new Fantasy Springs-themed port that opened at Tokyo DisneySea Park on June 6, 2024, at Tokyo Disney Resort.  Japan Airlines is an official sponsor which marks the sixth collaboration since JAL first teamed up with Tokyo DisneySea when it opened in 2001.

Fantasy Springs is the only themed port of its kind in the world, featuring three areas inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios films Frozen, Tangled and Peter Pan, as well as the latest Disney-themed hotel, Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel.

The aircraft design evokes magical springs that lead to a world of Disney fantasy, featuring Anna, Elsa, Rapunzel and Peter Pan against backdrops inspired by locations from Fantasy Springs, such as Arendelle Castle, Rapunzel’ s Tower and Captain Hook’s ship, the Jolly Roger.

Inflight Experience

Passengers will enjoy special designs on headrest covers and paper cups, immersing themselves in the world of Fantasy Springs as they travel aboard the "JAL Fantastic Journey Express" aircraft.

Additionally, the “JAL Happy Dream Campaign 2024"* is currently underway, offering participants a chance to win prizes, including invitations to JAL’s exclusive party events at Tokyo DisneySea.

Guests are invited to take this opportunity to travel to various destinations across Japan on JAL Group flights.

China's commercial aircraft fleet to more than double by 2043 for growth and modernization

Boeing estimates air travel in mainland China will grow 5.2% annually!

U.S. plane maker Boeing says China will more than double its commercial aeroplane fleet by 2043 as its aviation industry expands and modernizes to meet the growing demand for passenger and cargo air travel.

In the Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) Boeing contends:

Air travel in China is forecast to become the world's largest traffic flow, driving growth in the single-aisle fleet, which accounts for more than three-quarters of deliveries.

China will have the world's largest widebody fleet, with demand for 1,575 new widebody airplanes.

China's freighter fleet – including dedicated and converted models – will nearly triple with demand stimulated by its booming e-commerce sector.

 Chinese carriers will need aviation services worth $780 billion to support the growing fleet, including digital solutions, maintenance and modifications.

Its airline industry will need to hire and train nearly 430,000 new personnel to support new pilots, maintenance technicians and cabin crew.

"China's commercial aviation market for passengers and cargo continues to expand, driven by economic growth and airlines building their in-country networks," said Darren Hulst, Boeing vice president of Commercial Marketing. "As this forecast shows, China's airlines will see strong demand, requiring further growth of their modern fuel-efficient fleets."

China's commercial fleet will grow 4.1% annually, from 4,345 to 9,740 aeroplanes by 2043, and its annual passenger traffic growth of 5.9% will exceed the global average of 4.7%, according to the CMO. Passenger volumes will receive a boost as airlines grow their networks by connecting major hubs to smaller cities.

New deliveries (2024-2043)
Regional	365
Single Aisle	6,720
Widebody	1,575
Freighter	170
Total	8,830

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Three more cargo 747-8s for Atlas Air

BOC Aviation Limited confirmed today,  the placement of three Boeing 747-8 freighters with new customer Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. All three aircraft are powered by General Electric GEnx engines and are scheduled for delivery in 3Q 2024.

“Atlas manages the world’s largest fleet of Boeing 747 freighter aircraft and is ideally placed to partner with us in the operation of these latest-generation aircraft,” said Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. “As global airfreight volumes hit record highs this transaction highlights our ability to provide capacity solutions to a wide variety of airline customers.”

“As the world’s largest operator of 747 freighters, we are delighted to work with BOC Aviation to expand our widebody fleet with these three 747-8Fs,” said Michael Steen, Atlas Air Worldwide Chief Executive Officer. “Our growth in this aircraft type underscores Atlas’ commitment to the 747-freighter platform and the value it provides our customers, including significant payload capacity and unique nose-loading capability. Through our ongoing investments in innovation and our fleet, we continue to create additional operational flexibility, providing world-class service and acting as a trusted partner to our customers."

The 747-8 freighter excels as the most capable, technologically advanced, and environmentally friendly widebody freighter on the market. The 747-8F provides the largest load capacity in the market, with a 20% increase in payload capacity over the 747-400F, along with 25% more capacity than the 777-200LRF. The 747-8 has a 16% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the 747-400F. Additionally, the 747-8 freighter is the only factory-built freighter with nose-loading capability, meeting the long-term demands of the airfreight sector. Atlas stands out as the world’s largest operator of Boeing 747 freighter aircraft, with a fleet that includes 65 aircraft, consisting of 17 747-8Fs, 39 747-400Fs, 4 Large Cargo Freighters (LCFs) and 5 passenger 747-400s

Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services. It is the parent company of Atlas Air, Inc., and Titan Aviation Holdings, Inc., and is the majority shareholder of Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. Our companies operate the world’s largest fleet of 747 freighter aircraft and provide customers the broadest array of Boeing 747, 777, 767 and 737 aircraft for domestic, regional and international cargo and passenger operations.

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Boeing invests in Wagner Sustainable Fuels to support the development of a SAF production facility in Brisbane

U.S. plane maker Boeing is investing in Wagner Sustainable Fuels to support the development of its sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) production facility in Brisbane, increasing Australian SAF supply and reducing aviation’s carbon emissions.

Boeing’s investment in the Wagner refinery is part of its strategy to support the development of local SAF supply and expand global access to SAF, which remains the most effective lever to decarbonize aviation by 2050. SAF, which reduces CO2 emissions by up to 84% compared to petroleum jet fuel, currently represents 0.1% of global jet fuel use.

“We’re proud to invest in this project because it will make a real difference in developing a SAF industry in Australia,” said Kimberly Camrass, Boeing’s sustainability lead for Australia and New Zealand. “Accelerating local SAF supply enables Australia’s own climate goals and supports the global commercial aviation industry’s commitment of net zero CO₂ emissions by 2050.”

EL AL Israel Airlines completes order for up to 31 Boeing 737 MAX jets

Boeing and EL AL Israel Airlines confirmed this week that the Israeli flag carrier finalized an agreement for up to 31 737 MAX jets, supporting the airline's plans to renew its fleet of Next-Generation 737 aeroplanes.

"This is a significant milestone for EL AL, which will allow us to offer our customers the most advanced service and technology experience in the industry," said Dina Ben-Tal Ganancia. CEO EL AL Israel Airlines. "The implementation of the long-term procurement plan, which began with the purchase of an additional 787 Dreamliners earlier this year and culminates in the current deal, once again demonstrates our commitment to the Israeli public and the state."

Ben-Tal Ganancia added: "EL AL has a central role in ensuring open skies for Israel. The implementation of our strategic plan - which aims to expand the fleet, increase the value proposition for customers and increase capacity and seating - will ensure a strong and growing company for many years to come."

With the 737 MAX family, EL AL will achieve the best per-seat economics in its class, improved environmental performance and increased passenger comfort. In particular, the 737 MAX will reduce fuel use and emissions 20% compared to the airplanes it replaces and have a 50% smaller noise footprint.

"We are honoured EL AL has chosen Boeing aeroplanes to power its past, present and future as we continue to build on seven decades of partnership," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We know EL AL depends on the versatility and reliability of Boeing aeroplanes, and we look forward to delivering the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner jets that will reshape and grow the airline in the coming decades."

EL AL's 737 MAX order follows its purchase earlier this year of three additional 787-9 aircraft with options for six more as the airline further expands its 787 Dreamliner fleet. The carrier will take delivery of a new 787-9 this year and plans to receive two more new 787-9s on lease in the coming years.

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Poland agrees letter of offer and acceptance for 96 Boeing AH-64E Apache helicopters

The Government of Poland has signed a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) for 96 Boeing AH-64E Apache combat helicopters, as part of the Polish KRUK Attack Helicopter program.

“We are honoured the Government of Poland has placed their confidence in us,” said Vince Logsdon, vice president, International Business Development for Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “The AH-64E Apache helicopters will strengthen Poland’s operational capability and interoperability with the U.S., NATO and allied nations. We look forward to delivering this unmatched capability.”

The LOA comes a week after the Polish Ministry of National Defence announced an offset agreement with Boeing. The agreement includes maintenance and support of the Polish Armed Forces fleet of Apache helicopters by Polish defense industry along with the establishment of training programs and supporting the development of a composite laboratory.

flydubai starts flights to Basel despite Boeing delays

The Dubai-based budget carrier flydubai has become the first national carrier from the UAE to operate direct flights from Dubai to EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL). The carrier now links the two airports with a four times a week, with services on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

The inaugural flight touched down at Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg and was met with a traditional water cannon salute, last Wednesday, 7th August.  The budget airline has rapidly grown its network in Europe to 29 destinations including Budapest, Catania, Krakow, Milan-Bergamo, Prague, Salzburg and Zagreb.

Flights between Dubai and Basel will be operated a fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Passengers travelling in Business Class can look forward to comfortable seats and internationally-inspired menus while Economy Class passengers can enjoy seats designed to optimise space and comfort.

flydubai also features exceptional inflight entertainment with a full HD, 11.6-inch screen with a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music and games. Passengers can enjoy complimentary seatback inflight entertainment in Business Class or purchase affordable inflight entertainment packages when travelling in Economy Class.

Jeyhun Efendi, Senior Vice President of commercial operations and e-commerce at flydubai, said: “at flydubai, we are committed to opening up underserved destinations and creating free flows of trade and tourism and we are pleased to add Basel to our network in Europe. EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg serves Switzerland, France and Germany, making it an important hub for travel, trade and tourism in the tri-border region that will benefit our customers from the UAE and beyond.”

“We also look forward to welcoming more travellers from Europe to Dubai and beyond on the flydubai network. Through Dubai’s aviation hub, passengers travelling from Basel can enjoy convenient connections to holiday destinations including Kenya, the Maldives, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Thailand,” added Efendi.

Aeroflot's most popular routes for the first half of the year..

The Russian airline Aeroflot has released figures for its growth despite sanctions and airspace closures.  The carrier carried 4.2 million passengers on its own international flights, which is 34.1% more than in the first half of 2023.

The most popular international destinations in terms of the number of transported passengers in the first half of 2024 were*:

Moscow — Istanbul — Moscow (320.1K passengers)

Moscow — Phuket — Moscow (245.2K passengers)

Moscow — Dubai — Moscow (236.9K passengers)

Moscow — Antalya — Moscow (229.4K passengers)

Moscow — Yerevan — Moscow (227.3K passengers)

The most popular domestic destinations in terms of the number of transported passengers in the first half of 2024 were*:

Moscow — Sochi — Moscow (863,278 passengers)

Moscow — Saint Petersburg - Moscow (786,225 passengers **)

Moscow — Kaliningrad — Moscow (502,839 passengers)

Moscow — Yekaterinburg — Moscow (463,207 passengers)

Moscow — Mineralnye Vody — Moscow (418,609 passengers)

Moscow — Vladivostok — Moscow (418,154 passengers)

Moscow — Kazan — Moscow (371,723 passengers)

Moscow — Ufa — Moscow (329,427 passengers)

Moscow — Samara — Moscow (320,085 passengers)

Moscow — Chelyabinsk — Moscow (299,710 passengers)

*Only own Aeroflot flights are counted excluding affiliated airlines.

**Taking into account Rossiya Airlines, the total passenger traffic in the first half of the year amounted to a record 1,499,426 people.

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New routes....

The Russian carrier is resuming direct scheduled flights to Thailand from Yekaterinburg. 

"Restoring trust starts with meeting our commitments" says Boeing boss

Boeing's new CEO and President has written an open letter to staff that admits the company has a difficult time ahead rebuilding its reputation.

Kelly Ortberg writes; 

Team,

I can’t tell you how proud and excited I am to be a member of the Boeing team. While we clearly have a lot of work to do in restoring trust, I’m confident that working together, we will return the company to be the industry leader we all expect.

Restoring trust starts with meeting our commitments -- whether that’s building high quality, safe commercial aircraft, delivering on defense and space products that allow our customers to meet their mission, or servicing our products to keep our customers running 24/7. It also means meeting our commitments to each other and working collaboratively across Boeing to meet our goals. People’s lives depend on what we do every day, and we must keep that top of mind with every decision we make.

Because what we do is complex, I firmly believe that we need to get closer to the production lines and development programs across the company. I plan to be based in Seattle so that I can be close to the commercial airplane programs. In fact, I’ll be on the factory floor in Renton today, talking with employees and learning about challenges we need to overcome, while also reviewing our safety and quality plans. Soon I’ll be visiting many of our sites and I look forward to meeting with teammates around the world.

In speaking with our customers and industry partners leading up to today, I can tell you that without exception, everyone wants us to succeed. In many cases, they NEED us to succeed.  This is a great foundation for us to build upon.

I will be transparent with you every step of the way, sharing news on progress as well as where we must do things better. You’ll begin to see routine report outs from me through email and our BNN channel, giving you timely updates of what I’m seeing and hearing on the ground from our teammates and our stakeholders.

Throughout my career in aerospace over the last three decades, I have had the pleasure to work with The Boeing Company and I’ve always been impressed with the great employees here. We have what it takes to win, and I’m committed to working with you to focus the company in a way that makes us all proud to be a part of Boeing.

Thanks for your support and I’m excited to dig in!

Best,

Kelly

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Vietnam Airlines takes delivery of its 5th Boeing 787-10

At the end of July, Vietnam Airlines took delivery of its 5th Boeing 787-10 aircraft, which is also the 30th wide-body plane to join the carrier’s growing fleet.  The latest addition was welcomed with a grand celebration at Noi Bai International Airport. 

The Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner is the largest in the 787 family with a length of over 68 metres, a payload of 56-60 tonnes and can cover a maximum distance of nearly 12,000 km. Vietnam Airlines operates the aircraft in a two-class configuration with 24 seats in Business Class and 343 seats in Economy Class.

Dang Anh Tuan, Executive Vice President of Vietnam Airlines, said:  “Being a flag carrier of Vietnam, Vietnam Airlines is committed to upgrading and expanding our fleet. We aim not only to provide the highest levels of passenger comfort but also to fulfil our mission of connecting Vietnam with the world, therefore significantly supporting economic and social development."

The Boeing 787-10 boasts a range of technological advancements and modern amenities tailored to enhance passenger experience. Highlights include a spacious cabin, comfortable seats, large overhead bin and windows, modern entertainment system, adjustable LED lighting, lower cabin altitude, cleaner air, higher humidity, improved temperature control.

For availability and reservations on Vietnam Airlines please see here.

Boeing delivers first MH-139A production aircraft to U.S. Air Force

Boeing has delivered the first MH-139A Grey Wolf production aircraft to the U.S. Air Force. This aircraft, part of a Low Rate Initial Production order in 2023 for 13 helicopters, will be stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana.

“This aircraft will directly support ongoing U.S. Air Force modernization efforts,” said Azeem Khan, MH-139 executive director and program manager. “Delivering this asset for the MH-139A fleet is critical to the future of national security as the Grey Wolf will play a crucial role in the U.S. nuclear triad for decades to come.”

In 2024, the U.S. Air Force awarded an additional seven MH-139As to Boeing. With six Research, Development, Test and Evaluation aircraft already delivered, Boeing currently has 26 aircraft on contract.

With a 50% increase in speed and range and a 5,000 pound-lb. increase in max gross weight compared it is predecessor, the MH-139A can execute multiple mission sets. Combined with lower operating costs, increased reliability and improved maintainability, the aircraft provides improved capability and greater flexibility for the U.S. Air Force.

The MH-139A team consists of Boeing as the prime contractor and Leonardo as an original equipment manufacturer. Leonardo produces the baseline helicopter at its plant in northeast Philadelphia, while Boeing is responsible for military equipment procurement and installation and post-delivery support of the aircraft.

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US Army orders two Boeing MH-47G Block II Chinooks for special operations

Army Special Operations now has 46 MH-47G aircraft under contract

Updated configuration improves global reach capabilities

In June, U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (USASOAC) awarded Boeing a $115 million contract to produce two more MH-47G Block II Chinook aircraft and begin advanced procurement on future helicopters. Including the new order, the Army has contracted for a total of 46 MH-47G Block II aircraft.  

“Whether it’s operating in the dead of night or in difficult terrain, the MH-47G Block II is a proven workhorse for special operations,” said Heather McBryan, Cargo Programs vice president and program manager for Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “It is our privilege to support ongoing USASOAC modernization efforts that will continue to have a real-world impact on U.S. national security.”

USASOAC’s Chinook modernization program supports more than 20,000 jobs and 360 suppliers in 40 states across the U.S. Chinook Block II production leverages and strengthens the manufacturing base that will provide support to the production line for new aircraft and fleet sustainment.

With a reinforced airframe, redesigned fuel tanks and state-of-the-art avionics, the MH-47G Block II heavy-lift helicopter improves USASOAC’S global reach capabilities. In addition, the Block II design enables future affordable modernization efforts, keeping the iconic heavy-lift helicopter flying for decades to come.

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ATSG delivers two Boeing 767s to Georgian Airways

Air Transport Services Group, announced that its leasing subsidiary Cargo Aircraft Management (CAM) recently delivered two Boeing 767-300 aircraft to Georgian Airways LLC of Tbilisi, Georgia under multi-year leases.

One of the two Boeing 767-300s is a passenger aircraft delivered in June, while the other is a newly converted freighter delivered in July.

"We are pleased to deepen our partnership with ATSG with these two aircraft," said David Gaiashvili, general director of Georgian Airways. "Founded over three decades ago, Georgian Airways has established itself as a trusted leader in the aviation industry with a steadfast commitment to safety and a relentless pursuit of excellence. We are looking forward to growing with ATSG following its great experience and expertise in the industry."

Georgian Airways offers scheduled, charter and regular flights across Europe, the Baltic region, the Caucasus, the Black Sea Region, the Middle East, and eastern and southern Asia.

"These leases reflect the growing demand for global air capacity and reinforce our Lease+Plus strategy, providing comprehensive, reliable, and flexible leasing solutions for our global customers," said Mike Berger, chief executive officer of ATSG. "We are excited to grow capacity with our existing customers, as it validates the value ATSG brings to the leasing market. Medium widebody freighters like the Boeing 767 and Airbus A330 are ideal for cargo airlines based in Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The geographic location of Tbilisi is an excellent mid-point for goods flowing out of China and ultimately destined for Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East."

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Ryanair adds Jeppesen FliteDeck Pro 5.0 electronic flight bag from Boeing.

Boeing and Ryanair, Europe's largest airline group, are elevating efficiency across Ryanair's fleet of primarily 737s with the addition of Boeing's Jeppesen FliteDeck Pro 5.0 electronic flight bag (EFB) solution.

This strategic multi-year agreement, providing support for the carrier's Next-Generation 737 and 737 MAX fleet, underscores Ryanair's dedication to continuous improvement and innovation in airline operations.

"We are excited to integrate Boeing's newest electronic flight bag into our operations. This advanced tool will optimize our flight operations, minimize disruptions, and enhance efficiency across our expanding fleet," said Neal McMahon, chief operations officer of Ryanair. 

FliteDeck Pro will provide Ryanair with tailored route information and the latest technology, including Smart Airport Maps to optimize taxi routes, reduce fuel consumption and improve ground safety.

Qatar Airways orders 20 extra Boeing 777-9 jets.......

Boeing and Qatar Airways announced this week at the Farnborough AirShow an order for 20 more Boeing 777-9 aeroplanes, but it is not a new order,  it is a recycled order by Boeing to enhance its media reputation at the air show. The order was originally announced earlier this year and was marked as unidentified on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website.

"Qatar Airways is proud to announce an expansion to the existing Boeing 777X aircraft order with an additional 20, totalling 94 Boeing 777X aircraft," said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. "

"Qatar Airways is a leader in our industry, and we are honored the airline added 20 more 777-9 jets to its large Boeing order book," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We appreciate their confidence that Boeing's market-leading widebody family will provide outstanding fuel efficiency and a superior passenger experience for its global operations."

In addition to the 777X family, Qatar Airways has 12 787 Dreamliner and 25 737 MAX aircraft on order. 

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